Summer has well and truly arrived in Greater Manchester and - for once - the weather hasn’t disappointed (well, so far it hasn't). If the sunny weather has got you itching to head outside and soak up the rays, there’s lots of options when it comes to outdoor spaces across the city-region.
There’s one spot in South Manchester which is a haven on hot days and a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. Sale Water Park may be tucked right by the M60, but it feels a world away from the hum of the motorway traffic.
It’s an area of countryside, woodland and meadows with a lake at its heart. The park opened in 1979 and the lake was actually formed by filling in a gravel pit, which had been excavated for the construction of the motorway.
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Today it’s a hub for outdoor activities. Trafford Water Sports Centre is based in the park and offers lessons in everything from kayaking to stand-up paddle boarding. You can even launch your own boat or board, if you happen to have one.
Or if you’re feeling brave enough and want to take a dip in the lake’s cooling waters, you can book slots with Open Swim, which also offers lessons. It’s important to note that swimming at Sale Water Park is only permitted at specific sessions.
For those who don’t want to take to the water, you can still enjoy the waterside views with a picnic by the lake, or take a walk along the shore. With relatively flat paths, it’s a lovely spot for a stroll especially on a summer’s evening.
You can easily extend your walk too by following the River Mersey, heading into Chorlton Ees Nature Reserve, or venture over to Chorlton Water Park. Another way to experience the area is on two wheels, and there are bikes to hire at Velo Times on the banks of the River Mersey.
There’s a couple of places to grab a bite to eat and a drink at Sale Water Park, including Tree Tops Cafe and The Boathouse Restaurant. Sale Water Park Main Car Park (M33 2NJ) offers free parking and there’s a tram stop nearby served by the navy line.
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